Summary:
Airfare to Europe this summer is averaging nearly $1,200 per ticket, the highest prices seen in the last 6 years.
European hotels are averaging $205 per night, up 37% from this time last year. Prices in some top cities have risen even more compared to last summer, including Rome (+63%) and Madrid (+41%).
Since late April, demand to Europe has outpaced 2019 growth rates by as much as 20% as Americans have planned and booked their summer vacations.
Travelers headed to Europe are booking trips to major bucket list cities like London, Paris and Rome.
Airfare Prices
Europe is the #1 destination region for international US travelers, capturing more than ⅓ of all international searches from the US for summer 2023! Airfare to Europe this summer is averaging nearly $1,200 per ticket, the highest prices seen in the last 6 years. Airfare is averaging 12% higher than last summer, and 23% higher (+$220 per ticket) than in summer 2019. Despite higher prices, demand for travel to Europe remains high.
Since late April, demand to Europe has outpaced 2019 growth rates by as much as 20% as Americans have planned and booked their summer vacations. Historical and current demand rates are converging once again as we approach the peak of summer searches in mid June.
Travelers headed to Europe are booking trips to major bucket list cities like London, Paris and Rome. The most booked destinations in Europe also include destinations in Spain, Portugal and Greece, offering warm weather and long sunny days this summer.
Though most travelers are headed to the typical bucket list destinations in Europe, we’ve rounded up the top destinations off the beaten path that are trending this summer. Trips to Northern Ireland and Montenegro are increasing in popularity this year relative to previous summers. As a result of the hugely popular HBO series the White Lotus, Palermo, a city on the island of Sicily, is one of the top trending destinations off the beaten path in Europe.
Busiest Airports in Europe Summer 2023
Airports across Europe are expected to be packed with American tourists this summer with the largest among them expected to see crowds over peak weekends. London Heathrow, Amsterdam Schiphol and Frankfurt airports are expected to be the 3 busiest airports for passenger flights this summer. All three airports are currently seeing more than 30% of flights delayed on departure already, with some of the busiest weekends of the season ahead.
Vacationers who plan to arrive, depart or connect through any of these airports should plan ahead for some extra time this summer as delays and long lines are expected.
Accommodations
American travelers headed across Europe will be looking for accommodations while on their trips, and are likely to feel some sticker shock compared to last summer. European hotels are averaging $205 per night, up 37% from this time last year. Prices in some top cities have risen even more compared to last summer, including Rome (+63%) and Madrid (+41%).
Hopper users are booking stays in top cities like London, Paris and Barcelona for early summer getaways. Destinations off the beaten path like Manchester and Birmingham have also topped the rankings. Travelers booking European hotels are staying a little longer this summer, with most stays close to 2 nights, compared to 1.7 nights on average last summer. Though prices are higher this summer, travelers continue to book more last minute. Hopper bookers are reserving their stays 7-8 weeks in advance compared to 9-10 weeks in advance last year.
How to get a deal to Europe?
Deals Hopper users scored to Europe under $500
Though prices to Europe this year are high, many Hopper users scored incredible deals by planning ahead and booking at the right time. Hopper customers are headed to Iceland, Portugal, France and Greece for under $400 per ticket this summer season, saving as much as 70% off current prices.
Last minute deals to Europe still available to book
Still eyeing a trip to Europe for this summer or fall? You’re in luck! Hopper is running a sale June 13-15th with exclusive deals to top European destinations.
Athens, Greece - as low as $772 round-trip (additional $100 off flights & 30% off hotels during Hopper’s June Summer Sale)
Madrid, Spain - as low as $703 round-trip (additional $100 off flights & 30% off hotels during Hopper’s June Summer Sale)
Prague, Czech Republic - as low as $916 round-trip (additional $100 off flights & 30% off hotels during Hopper’s June Summer Sale)
Copenhagen, Denmark - as low as $880 round-trip (additional $60 off flights & 25% off hotels during Hopper’s June Summer Sale)
Berlin, Germany - as low as $675 round-trip (additional $60 off flights & 25% off hotels during Hopper’s June Summer Sale)
Munich, Germany - as low as $974 round-trip (additional $100 off flights & 25% off hotels during Hopper’s June Summer Sale)
London, United Kingdom - as low as $639 round-trip (additional $50 off flights & 25% off hotels during Hopper’s June Summer Sale)
Amsterdam, Netherlands - as low as $883 round-trip (additional $50 off flights & 25% off hotels during Hopper’s June Summer Sale)
FAQs
Buy your tickets at the right time (to the extent possible). Airfares flex like crazy, but in general it's wise to start looking for international flights at least four to six months before your trip, especially for travel in spring, summer, or fall.
What are the new travel requirements for Europe in 2023? ›
In mid-to-late 2023, U.S. citizens and nationals of over 60 other countries will need an electronic travel authorization to visit much of Europe. Travelers to any Schengen-zone country will have to register with a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
Will you be charged to visit Europe from 2023? ›
The travel authorization requirement — which carries a nonrefundable fee of 7 euros a person, or about $7.40 at current exchange rates — has already been delayed many times. It was initially meant to take effect in 2021, then 2023 and 2024 — and now 2025.
What is the best season to visit Europe 2023? ›
Although Europe is a year-round travel destination, the best time to visit Europe is during the summer months of June to September. This is the time when the sun is high, the beaches are warm and the weather is sunny.
What is the most expensive month to visit Europe? ›
Generally, the summer months of June, July, and August tend to be more expensive due to increased demand for travel, especially in popular tourist destinations. Additionally, holiday periods like Christmas and New Year's can also see higher prices due to increased demand.
What is the least expensive month to fly to Europe? ›
The summer season, which runs from late May or early June through the end of August, is when many American families can travel. As a result, it's the most expensive time to visit Europe. The late fall and winter months—from mid to late October through middle-to-late March—are often the cheapest time to fly.
What is the new step for American travelers to Europe? ›
Starting in "the first half of 2025," Americans will need one more document to enter countries in the European Union. To visit, you'll have to apply for approval under the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
Do I need a visa to go to Italy in 2023? ›
Travel to Italy from the U.S. with ETIAS
Italy is a popular European destination for American travelers. As a U.S. passport holder, you can visit Italy without a visa for up to 90 days. From 2025, you'll need to apply for ETIAS to travel visa-free.
Is ETIAS required for US citizens? ›
ETIAS is a travel authorization waiver for visa-free visitors, visitors who include U.S. citizens. In fact, it will be mandatory for all countries currently in the Schengen Zone, or who currently have visa-free access to the Zone, which includes over 60 countries.
How far in advance can I book a trip to Europe? ›
A good rule of thumb for planning a trip to Europe is to take at least six months. And if you really want to benefit from early preparation, a year may be even better. That ample time can play a pivotal role in helping you: Create the trip of a lifetime.
Americans won't have to pay Europe's new entrance fee until 2025. The European Union has pushed back its new "ETIAS" travel authorization to 2025. The new rules will require US travelers to pay a $7.50 fee and fill out an entrance form.
How much does it cost to travel to Europe for 3 weeks? ›
Deals directly to your inbox
So, how much money do you really need for 3 weeks in Europe? While it varies depending on your travel style and destination, a budget of around $2,000 - $5,000 USD should cover your expenses. Of course, this is just a rough estimate - the more you can save, the better!
How many days are enough for a Europe trip? ›
How many days should I spend in Europe? We recommend you spend at least 10 days in Europe, giving you enough time to experience the highlights of famous cities like Athens or Lisbon, with an unplanned day or two in the countries you visit.
What is the busiest month to visit Europe? ›
Fortunately, Europe welcomes visitors 365 days a year — and each season offers a different ambience and experience. In travel-industry jargon, the year is divided into three seasons: peak season (roughly May through September), shoulder season (April and October), and off-season (November through March).
Is summer 2023 going to be hot in Europe? ›
Overall, summer 2023 saw a record number of days with extreme heat stress in southern Europe, although confined to localised areas. Sea surface temperature anomaly (°C) for European seas in summer (June to August) 2023, relative to the 1991-2020 reference period.
How far in advance should I book an international flight in 2023? ›
Time your booking right
“For international flights — [it's] four to 10 months.” If you're traveling during an off-peak season, you're going to want to look at airfares one to three months in advance for domestic flights, and two to eight months ahead of the flight for international trips.
How far in advance should you book a flight to Europe? ›
Best Time To Book International Flights
According to Expedia's study, data shows that you want to book at least six months in advance for international travel. The study found you'll save an average of 10% by booking six months in advance instead of two months or less.
How far in advance should I plan a trip to Europe? ›
A good rule of thumb for planning a trip to Europe is to take at least six months. And if you really want to benefit from early preparation, a year may be even better. That ample time can play a pivotal role in helping you: Create the trip of a lifetime.
Why are flights so expensive in July 2023? ›
It mostly comes down to supply and demand. "Demand is contributing to higher prices as travel continues to surge post-pandemic," Berg said. "Sustained strong demand in 2023 continues to put additional pressure on prices, especially to and within regions where travel has only recently reopened like parts of Asia."
